The Senate is weighing the first major legislation aimed at curbing gun violence since the Newtown shootings, but despite months of negotiations the fate of that bill remains unclear. So instead of waiting for a vote, we are turning to you for help.

Stephen Spielberg’s “Lincoln,” even has a crack about Albany corruption. Can it really go that far back? Herewith, a spin through some recent lowlights, which suggests not much has changed in a century or two.

One measure of accountability for the U.S. covert drone wars is acknowledging civilian casualties and compensating families for their losses. Recent history in Iraq and Afghanistan shows that isn’t always simple.

The innocent can wind up in prison. The guilty can be set free. But New York City prosecutors who withhold evidence, tolerate false testimony or commit other abuses almost never see their careers damaged.